Albania. Have you heard of this nation that recently seems to be receiving some international attention? Albania, a nation with everything, is now receiving all the attention it deserves for the first time. I mean beaches, rivers, lakes, mountains, tradition, culture, and art when I say that it has it all. This year, Albania has quickly emerged as the top travel destination. But, what are the top places to visit in Albania in 2023?
Tirana
When I think of Albania, one of my favorite cities comes to mind: Tirana. My new residence. Tirana is not one of the typical European capitals with beautiful and well-kept buildings that are pleasing to the eye. Tirana is unique; it is a beautiful mess. And Tirana is probably one of those places where you can say “new year, new me” because it has literally changed its appearance a few times or changes it every year. Every day, a new structure emerges from the grounds to add to Tirana’s skyline. Every day is not the same as the previous one. Tirana will provide you with something that other places will not: serenity in the midst of chaos.
In this city, everyone appears to be rushing but nobody appears to be moving. Streets are lined with people who are well-dressed as if they were in a runway show. Nightlife is full of folk music and traditional dances, art, and culture. That is something you cannot encounter elsewhere. Due to their shared era, history and bunkers are intertwined, but if you are interested in ancient history, you must be willing to look for it. You will find remnants of it in this modern city that uses color to conceal its dark communist past.
What to see in Tirana?
The Scanderbeg Square is larger than it appears on the internet, according to a person I once met. That is accurate, but Scanderbeg Square also houses the monument of one of Albania’s greatest heroes.
The bunkers that house the remnants of that era contain information about Albania’s communist past. Both offer a glimpse into the struggles of communism.
In Tirana, you can visit a few museums to get a sense of Albania in general. You can also visit art galleries to view hundreds of works of art created by well-known Albanian artists.
Where to eat traditional Albanian food in Albania?
A family-run restaurant that has some of the most traditional dishes you can find in Tirana.
Era is a low-cost restaurant that serves delicious Albanian cuisine. The entire menu is a combination of traveling throughout Albania and indulging in a grandmother’s kitchen.
An oasis of traditional dishes mixed with modern Albanian dishes.
Berat
The town of 1000 Windows is finally getting the attention it deserves. But why should you go to Berat? The town of Berat has one of the most breathtaking views in Albania. A town with an inhabited castle is always worthwhile visiting. Is Berat Castle the only one in Albania where people still live within its walls? It certainly is. The town of Berat has one of the most breathtaking views in Albania. There are lovely antique shops and restaurants, but there’s also a view of the Osumi River, which runs through the city and stands proudly between the mountains. 1000 windows, plus one more you must find. Berat is a historical puzzle game.
What to see in Berat?
The Berat Castle was built in the fourth century BC. It is the only castle where you will find people that still live in the old houses. Inside the walls of the castle, you will find other things to see that are up to you to discover.
This Byzantine church dates back to the 13th or 14th century and is located on a sloping hill on the western side of Berat Castle with views of Mt. Shpirag and the opposite side of Berat city. A picture of the church, the city, and the mountain together makes for a very photogenic scene.
Back then, the Christians lived in the Gorica Quarter across the river from the Muslim-populated Mangalem Quarter, which was known as the Ottoman Quarter. Today, it still resembles Ottoman-era homes with numerous large symmetrical windows that are arranged in a row along the sides of rocky hills on either side of the Osum River.
Where to eat in Berat?
The restaurant is located in Gorica on a hill that has a lovely view. There, you can try a cooking class, pick up some Albanian recipes, or just eat some traditional Albanian food.
Despite its Italian name, this restaurant serves authentic Albanian cuisine. The top-floor terrace provides a beautiful view of the sunset over the cathedral and mosque.
A home where they chose to invite people over to sample their culinary creations! The best place in Berat is found in the backyard of lovely Lili’s house. You might hesitate if you were told about a restaurant that serves only home-made wine, has a small menu on a faded board that states “no desserts,” seats only about 15 people, is difficult to find and locate, has tables that appear to be made from old pallets, and is only open for a limited time. But don’t. The experience at Lili’s is excellent.
Gjirokastra
On the eastern side of “Mali I Gjer,” the museum city of Gjirokastra was built. It has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2005. What makes Gjirokastra so appealing is the immaculate beauty that can be found in every corner of the stone city. Home to various important Albanian figures as well as Albanian history. Gjirokastra’s streets are alive with music and unspoken conversations. The castle is the icing on the cake for this city. The castle, which overlooks the Drina Valley as well as the limestone city, has its own story to tell.
What to see in Gjirokastra?
The castle in Gjirokastra is one of the largest in the Balkans. It is located on a hilltop overlooking the city and has witnessed the history of the entire region over the centuries.
These houses both in different locations of Gjirokastra will show you the history of two of the most famous families in the Region.
A fascinating museum located in Hoxha’s birthplace. Exhibit depicting the traditional life and birth room of the Albanian dictator.
Where to eat in Gjirokaster?
A very nice neighborhood canteen where all of the food is homemade, the restaurant is run by the owner’s family, and she extends a very warm welcome to every visitor.
The restaurant, located in the old town, is run by a family that loves what they do. The cuisine is traditional and absolutely delectable. Everything on the menu is delicious.
The Kujtimi restaurant is a family-run restaurant situated in Gjirokaster’s historical center.
Theth
Imagine a natural oasis in northern Albania. Theth is a traditional village in the heart of the Albanian Alps. Driving down some rough roads that lead to a location surrounded by wildflowers, meadows, and mountain peaks. A place where village life unfolds in front of your eyes.
But why should you pay a visit to Theth? Because it is one of Albania’s most treasured thesauruses, it is a place of serenity and peace, as well as kind people who haven’t forgotten what true hospitality is. But also because Theth’s landscape rivals that of the Austrian and Swiss Alps.
What to see in Theth?
One of the most beautiful churches in Albania can be found in Theth. This church, which was built in 1982, used to be a school for local children.
One of the places I like best in Theth is this tower, which has a rich history. The Tower of Nikoll Koçeku is a 400-year-old stone tower that has witnessed numerous family disputes or Gjakemarrje. Small windows in the Lock-in tower allow those inside to see approaching enemies. There, those involved in a family dispute would conceal themselves. Years later, it served as a prison. and is now a historical artifact.
Evidently, Albanians adore blue eyes because two of our most stunning locations share the name Blue Eye. There is a hike to The Blue Eye from Theth. The Blue Eye is a turquoise-colored natural pool with a small waterfall that adds to its beauty. Swim in the water if it’s summer; it will likely be very cold, but they say that what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger. Despite the jokes, it’s healthy for your bones.
Where to eat in Theth
This will be one of my favorite things to answer because you can eat amazing traditional Albanian food in our own Villa in Theth.
You have the opportunity to savor a traditional kitchen with homemade food prepared with ingredients grown locally in their garden or in the high pastures while taking in the peace and quiet of the surroundings, the fresh air, and the unspoiled beauty where nature reveals its breathtaking beauty. Regarding traditional structures, Villa Gjeçaj architecture predominates, incorporating the finest stone and wood carvings of Shala region crafts. The intricate design of each room, the restaurant area, and the exterior walls, doors, and windows of the Villa all showcase how elegantly traditional craftsman Villa Gjeçaj combines old methods with modern style. The complex consists of two buildings: the Guesthouse, which has preserved the Gjeçaj family over 90-year history of change, and the Residence, which was constructed in 2013 but is always based on the traditional architecture that the Shala region justly takes pride in.
Stay tuned to learn about the history of a nation that underwent significant changes to become where it is today. There are so many places in Albania to write about, but that can wait until our next post.
Welcome to Albania!
